1909 $2.50 Indian NGC MS64

1909 $2.50 Indian Head Gold Coin – A Bold Departure in U.S. Coinage Design

Struck during a transformative era in American history, the 1909 $2.50 Indian Head Gold Coin stands as one of the most distinctive issues in U.S. coinage. Part of the Indian Head Quarter Eagle series minted from 1908 to 1929, this coin broke with tradition by showcasing an incuse design, where the images and inscriptions are sunken below the coin’s surface rather than raised. This innovative technique was championed by President Theodore Roosevelt as part of his mission to beautify American coinage.

The coin was designed by Bela Lyon Pratt, a noted sculptor and protégé of Augustus Saint-Gaudens. Pratt’s design features a left-facing Native American chief in full headdress on the obverse, symbolizing strength and dignity. The reverse depicts a majestic standing eagle, echoing themes of national pride and freedom.

Each 1909 Indian Head Quarter Eagle is struck in 90% pure gold, with a total weight of 4.18 grams (0.1209 troy ounces of pure gold). The coin has a diameter of 18 mm, making it slightly smaller than a modern nickel, but rich in both artistry and historical significance.

Whether you’re a seasoned collector or a first-time buyer, the 1909 $2.50 Indian Head Gold Coin offers a rare opportunity to own a bold and beautiful piece of early 20th-century American heritage.